Slavery in History

"Slavery in History" by Adam Gurowski is a historical exploration of slavery's role in societies throughout time, which questions common justifications for the enslavement of human beings, and looks at the ways slavery has been practiced around the world. The book begins by challenging the idea that slavery is natural, or has been essential to building strong societies, offering evidence that the enslavement of other human beings has been more like a sickness that can bring ruin to cultures. Civilizations like the Egyptians and Phoenicians had different forms of slavery and opinions on the practice, as the author begins by observing how slavery has often been tied to conquest and war, but has also existed in forms that allow the enslaved some social position. The author uses historical examples such as the Egyptians and Phoenicians to begin his critical examination of how slavery has shaped historical events and communities.